The 28GHz spectrum, part of the millimeter wave (mmWave) band, is transforming how industries operate by providing faster speeds, lower latency and greater capacity for data transfer. With the rise of 5G, the 28GHz spectrum is no longer just a promising technology—it’s becoming a key driver of innovation across industries. From powering ultra-fast mobile networks to enabling smart cities, 28GHz is redefining connectivity in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago.
Various industries, from mobile network operators to enterprises, are leveraging 28GHz to enable innovative applications and services. This blog explores how the 28GHz spectrum is impacting different sectors and highlights how BroadbandOne is at the forefront of deploying this technology with FCC approval to support wireless connectivity services that larger carriers are just beginning to deploy in markets.
1. Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are among the primary beneficiaries of the 28GHz spectrum. As global demand for mobile data continues to rise, with data traffic expected to grow 20 percent through 2029, MNOs are seeking to enhance their networks to provide faster and more reliable service. The 28GHz band, being a part of the mmWave spectrum, offers exceptionally high data rates and reduced latency, which are crucial for 5G deployment. See the MNO benefits of 28GHz below:
Enhanced Data Capacity
28GHz provides the capability for MNOs to handle a large number of connected devices without compromising speed. This is important in dense urban environments where the concentration of users and devices is high.
Ultra-Low Latency
The high-frequency spectrum allows for real-time communication, essential for applications like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and autonomous vehicles.
Broader Bandwidth
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are leveraging the unparalleled potential of 5G and mmWave technologies to introduce innovative services like Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). FWA offers a robust alternative to traditional broadband by capitalizing on the wider bandwidths available in the mmWave spectrum, which can handle significantly higher data rates. This makes FWA particularly valuable in addressing the digital divide in underserved areas, providing a practical solution where deploying fiber-optic infrastructure is challenging due to cost or geography. By delivering high-speed, low-latency connectivity over a wireless medium, FWA is redefining broadband access, allowing MNOs to expand their service footprints while meeting the growing demand for faster and more reliable internet.
2. Telecommunications and Internet Service Providers
Telecommunications and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are using the 28GHz spectrum to offer enhanced fixed wireless broadband services. With its ability to support high data rates and lower latency, the 28GHz band is ideal for delivering gigabit-speed internet to homes and businesses that include these benefits:
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)
The 28GHz spectrum, a key band within the mmWave range, has become a cornerstone for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offering Fixed Wireless Access solutions. This spectrum enables high-speed internet delivery to locations where deploying traditional broadband infrastructure, such as fiber-optic cables, is either cost-prohibitive or physically unfeasible. For rural and remote communities—areas traditionally overlooked by broadband providers—FWA represents a transformative opportunity. By leveraging the millimeter wave’s ability to transmit massive amounts of data at high speeds over short distances, ISPs can provide services that rival or exceed traditional broadband performance. With the scalability and cost-effectiveness of FWA, ISPs and MNOs are positioning this technology as the definitive application for mmWave and a critical enabler of 5G.
Supporting Next-Gen Communication
The use of 28GHz allows ISPs to support more advanced communication services like VoIP, video conferencing, and cloud-based applications, thereby enhancing user experiences.
3. Enterprise Applications
Enterprises are leveraging the 28GHz spectrum to develop private 5G networks that are tailored to their specific operational needs. The benefits of deploying a private network in this band include increased control, enhanced security and guaranteed service quality.
Industrial Automation
Factories and manufacturing plants can benefit from 28GHz by deploying private 5G networks that support real-time monitoring, robotic automation and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication.
Smart Offices
Enterprises can enhance their workplace environments with smart solutions powered by 28GHz-based 5G networks. This includes better support for IoT devices, remote work solutions, and enhanced cybersecurity protocols.
Enhanced Collaboration
High-speed, low-latency communication enables seamless collaboration across departments and locations, supporting applications like AR and VR for training and virtual meetings.
4. Healthcare Sector
The healthcare sector is poised to benefit significantly from the 28GHz spectrum utilizing 5G by leveraging its capabilities for telemedicine, remote surgery, and patient monitoring. The high-speed and low-latency characteristics of the 28GHz band are crucial for real-time data transfer and communication in healthcare settings that offer the following technological advancements:
Remote Patient Monitoring
The 28GHz spectrum can support wearable medical devices that provide real-time monitoring of patients’ health data, ensuring timely medical intervention.
Telemedicine and Remote Surgery
High-speed 5G networks utilizing 28GHz can enable telemedicine consultations and even remote surgery, where a specialist controls robotic surgical equipment from a distant location.
5. Public Safety and Smart Cities
Public safety agencies and municipalities are exploring the use of 28GHz for smart city applications. This includes surveillance systems, intelligent traffic management and emergency response coordination with these intelligent offerings:
Smart Surveillance and Security
High-definition cameras connected via 28GHz can provide real-time surveillance footage, enhancing urban safety.
Intelligent Transportation Systems
The low latency of the 28GHz spectrum supports Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, allowing vehicles to communicate with each other and infrastructure, thus improving traffic flow and reducing accidents.
6. Retail and Customer Experience
Retailers can leverage the 28GHz spectrum to provide enhanced customer experiences and operational efficiencies. This could include augmented reality (AR) experiences, AI-driven analytics and smart inventory management that offers the following perks:
Augmented Reality Shopping
The high data rates and low latency of 28GHz networks enable AR applications in stores, allowing customers to visualize products in different environments or configurations.
Real-Time Data Analytics
Retailers can use high-speed 5G networks to perform real-time data analytics, enhancing decision-making related to inventory, customer preferences, and supply chain management.
7. Multi-Dwelling Units (MDUs)
Multi-Dwelling Units, such as apartment complexes and condominiums, are adopting 28GHz technology to provide seamless, high-speed connectivity for residents in all corners of their living spaces. This technology works to provide:
Enhanced Resident Connectivity
FWA solutions powered by 28GHz offer gigabit-speed internet access to residents, eliminating the need for costly and invasive fiber installations.
Smart Building Solutions
MDUs can implement IoT-enabled building management systems, improving energy efficiency and security.
Community-Wide Coverage
Point-to-multipoint deployments ensure reliable connectivity across entire complexes, supporting the growing demand for remote work and smart home devices.
BroadbandOne’s Leadership in mmWave 28GHz Spectrum Deployment
The mmWave 28GHz spectrum is transforming multiple industries by enabling faster, more reliable and more innovative applications. From enhancing mobile network operations to empowering enterprises and smart cities, this high-frequency band is paving the way for a connected future. BroadbandOne is pioneering the use of the 28GHz spectrum with the power of mmWave to deliver high-capacity, low-latency connectivity that supports next-generation wireless connectivity services. With FCC approval, BroadbandOne is deploying mmWave 28GHz technology to enhance wireless connectivity and provide robust broadband solutions that larger carriers are only beginning to explore. This includes deploying point-to-point and point-to-multipoint services that leverage the 28GHz spectrum to deliver high-speed, reliable connectivity in various environments.
By integrating mmWave with our existing network infrastructure, BroadbandOne is positioned to provide innovative solutions that support the demands of modern enterprises, smart cities, and mobile network operators. Whether it’s enabling faster data transmission for financial transactions or supporting critical healthcare applications, BB1’s 28GHz spectrum services are setting new standards in connectivity and performance. Contact BB1 today to learn more about how our mmWave spectrum can shape the future of your business.
